Can you give Tramadol to dogs?

March 25, 2017
, Dr.Felix , Comments Off on Can you give Tramadol to dogs?

Yes, you can give Tramadol to dogs provided there is a valid prescription with the correct dosage information. Dogs experience painful illness and also injuries, necessitating the use of the pain medication Tramadol. The opioid-like pain reliever is prescribed for dogs only when the medication is considered as the most suitable one for pain relief.

Tramadol, also available in brand name Ultram, may be used predominantly in humans but the same came be used in dogs as well. Of course, the medication should be in the right dosage strength. As with humans, the use of Tramadol in dogs should be done with the appropriate precautions after consulting with the veterinarian. If administered right, Tramadol can be very useful in managing the illness or recovery of the dog.

When is Tramadol administered to dogs?

Tramadol is used in dogs for pain relief similar to the way it is in humans. The drug can help manage conditions like cancer treatment related pain, osteoarthritis and other degenerative illnesses, chronic pain, and post-surgery. The dosage is calculated according to the weight of the dog and adjusted depending on the dog’s response to the medication. Multiple doses may be administered in a day, and it may take a few days to see improvement in the pain symptoms.

What should I know before giving Tramadol to my dog?

Tramadol for dogs should be given in the right way for the most effective results. Side effects can occur similar that experienced by humans. Drug overdose can also be toxic for the dog. It is recommended to keep track of the doses administered. Dogs are usually prescribed to take immediate release Tramadol tablet. The extended release version is not advised as the capsule may be chewed or broken in the mouth itself, and the effects can raise the risk of side effects.

Another word of caution is that the Tramadol used by humans may not be suitable for the dog. For instance, people can buy Tramadol and use it in combination with another pain relieving drug that may not be suitable for dogs. Administering this medication can be harmful and you should always check with the veterinarian for any Tramadol dosage or name brand alterations.

What is the best way to give Tramadol to my dog?

Dogs can be quite clever in avoiding swallowing the medication. The pet owner can insert the Tramadol pill inside a scoop of food and make the dog swallow it easily. Else, the mouth of the dog should be held open gently and the Tramadol pill pushed down the throat so that it has to be swallowed. For faster pain relief, Tramadol injections or IV works best and the veterinarian can administer the pain medication for your dog.